A group of residents concerned about the future of Greater Vernon’s water utility will go before the politicians.
Citizens for Change to the Master Water Plan will make presentations to Vernon and Coldstream councils Monday.
“We will offer a 10-minute presentation highlighting the need to re-evaluate the direction of the current master water plan,” said Terry Mooney, group chairperson.
“Greater Vernon Water continues to promote Duteau Creek as the main source for drinking water. This results in the continuation of providing filtered and chlorinated water for agricultural activity and while we use this water for fields and crops the cost of drinking water escalates.”
Borrowing of $70 million for water system projects was defeated in a November referendum, and CCMWP will present a proposed alternative to the master water plan.
“We will recommend reverting the Duteau Creek water supply back to agriculture as was the original intent. Our recommendation will be to evaluate the use of both Okanagan and Kalamalka lakes as the primary source for drinking water for the region,” said Mooney.
“Current domestic, commercial, agricultural and recreational water bills are unsustainable, a disincentive to new business locating in our region and are creating a problem for the entire water user base.”
